Pep Guardiola said that Kalvin Phillips’struggled’ to adjust to life at Manchester City after Marcelo Bielsa brought out his best at Leeds United.
Phillips spent £45 million last summer moving from the Yorkshire club to City.
In his first season at the Etihad, the English midfielder struggled to get into games and performed poorly when he did.
In 2022–2023, he made 12 appearances in all competitions, starting twice, and yet managed to win the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.
Over the summer, there were rumors that Phillips might leave City in order to play more frequently, but the player steadfastly insisted that he wanted to stay and compete for a spot.
It is nearly impossible to replace Rodri in the Cityzens starting lineup, but the Spaniard’s dismissal against Nottingham Forest on Saturday should provide Phillips with the chance he has been waiting for.
When Guardiola’s team faces Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, Rodri will serve a three-game suspension, and Phillips is expected to make his first start of the year.
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Prior to the match at St. James’ Park, Guardiola acknowledged that Phillips had a difficult time adjusting to life at the Etihad and praised Bielsa for placing the 26-year-old in a system that was “perfect” for his playing style.
The Spanish manager claimed that Marcelo (Bielsa) provided Kalvin his best performance of his career.
“I wish I could have treated Kalvin the way Marcelo has treated him.
We have our own distinctive style of play, and (he) occasionally finds it difficult in a few areas where the Leeds playing style was ideal for him in the past.
Phillips decided to stay at City despite negotiations with the club, Guardiola later disclosed.
“The club spoke with him because he did not have many minutes,” he explained. “No, I want to stay,” he replied.
“We chose Kalvin because of his talent. He has an open mind, a thirst for knowledge, and a desire to assist. This is what we intend to attempt.
Guardiola has already dealt with a number of injuries this season and stated that his players’ “lack of rest” is a major “problem” as they get ready to play four straight away matches.
“The issue is the lack of sleep, particularly mentally,” Guardiola continued. The issue is this. It’s nothing to take two or three weeks off in between seasons.
“Year after year, there is a shortage of rest. The Champions League will continue to be longer as it always has been. I grumble a little bit here, but I quickly forget it.
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